KiwiRail is introducing a series of price increases for Interislander commercial vehicle users, including a 2.78% general rate rise which took effect from July 10.
The operator says the general rate increase is tied to the annual Consumer Price Index (transport index excluding fuel) and comes as part of KiwiRail’s broader cost recovery and transformation programme.
The announcement follows a busy period for Interislander, with preparations under way for new ferry infrastructure and the retirement of Aratere later this year.
“We appreciate that any cost increase at any time is challenging,” KiwiRail freight markets executive general manager Alan Piper said in a letter to customers dated June 10.
“Our goal is to be able to offset cost increases with improvement initiatives… and be able to beat market inflation next year.”
In addition to the CPI-linked rate rise, Interislander is introducing new ancillary fees including:
- A $30 Mafi Assist Fee for drop trailers, increasing to $60 in July 2026 and $90 in July 2027
- A $20 Driver Assist Fee for loading and unloading on behalf of customers
- A $45 Dangerous Goods Declaration Fee per unit carrying hazardous materials
Transporting New Zealand chief executive Dom Kalasih says the road freight industry is open to paying more — but only when cost increases are matched by productivity improvements.
He says at the moment prices seem to be going up without any benefits.
I support the need for the national freight study to be continued it makes sense